Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon

Name: Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Ideas

I love making Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon because it’s such a delightful dish that combines comfort and freshness in every mouthful. The creamy texture of the orzo perfectly complements the bright notes of lemon and the rich flavor of spinach. It's quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners. Plus, the ingredients are simple yet satisfying, allowing the flavors to shine through beautifully. This dish truly warms my heart and brings a taste of joy to my dinner table.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:53:39.937Z

When I first made Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. The method of slowly incorporating the broth while stirring the orzo allows it to absorb just the right amount of liquid, making it ultra creamy. I also discovered that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end really elevates the dish, balancing the creaminess with a citrus zing that brightens it all up!

I've tried various vegetable combinations, but spinach remains my favorite because it wilts beautifully and adds a pop of color. It also packs a nutritional punch! If you want to elevate your dish even further, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese while serving. Its richness will harmonize with the orzo perfectly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts while refreshing your palate
Zesty lemon flavor that brightens each bite
Quick to make, perfect for any night of the week

      

Understanding Orzo Cooking Techniques

Cooking orzo correctly is crucial for achieving that perfect texture. Start by toasting the orzo in olive oil over medium heat until it’s lightly golden, which enhances the nutty flavor. This process should take about 2 minutes. Then, adding broth gradually allows the orzo to absorb the liquid evenly. If you find the orzo not cooked through after 10 minutes, add a splash more broth and check every minute until it reaches that desirable al dente state—firm to the bite but tender enough for a creamy finish.

To avoid starchy clumps, ensure you stir the orzo frequently while the broth is absorbed. A good tool for this task is a wooden spoon, as it can scrape the bottom of the pot while also gently stirring the pasta. You know it’s ready when the orzo looks plump but still has a slight firmness, ideally achieving small 'pockets' of broth captured within.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The vibrancy of the spinach in this dish is what truly elevates it. Use fresh, bright green spinach leaves for the best taste and texture. When adding the spinach to the orzo, keep the heat low to gently wilt it instead of overcooking, which can yield a muted flavor and an unappetizing color. This should only take 2-3 minutes, allowing the spinach to integrate seamlessly into the creamy mixture.

The zesting and juicing of the lemon are equally essential in this recipe. I recommend using a microplane for zesting, which gives fine shavings and ensures that no bitter white pith is included. When you squeeze the lemon for juice, make sure to strain it to catch any seeds. This bright acidity beautifully contrasts with the creaminess for a well-rounded dish.

Ingredients

For the Orzo

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Slowly pour in the broth, stirring continuously, until the orzo absorbs the liquid and is al dente, approximately 10 minutes.

Add Spinach and Cream

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the cream to meld with the orzo.

Finish with Lemon

Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or peas, for extra flavor and nutrition. For added richness, top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Spinach Orzo is best served fresh, but if you're planning ahead, you can cook the orzo and store it separately from the sauce. Once cooked, let the orzo cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. The orzo can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat it in a saucepan with a splash of broth to revive its creamy texture.

If you choose to make the entire dish ahead of time, remember to undercook the orzo slightly so it doesn’t turn mushy when reheated. When combined with the spinach and cream, the flavor will deepen overnight in the fridge, but be sure to give it a quick stir and a fresh squirt of lemon juice before serving to brighten up the flavors again.

Variations to Try

You can easily switch up this dish by adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. Simply cook the protein separately and mix it in once the orzo and spinach are completed. For a vegetarian or vegan version, consider substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth to retain the rich flavor without any dairy.

For those who enjoy a hint of spice, adding red pepper flakes or sautéed garlic in olive oil during the cooking process can enhance the overall taste profile. Additionally, you can throw in other vegetables, such as peas or sun-dried tomatoes, for a more colorful and nutrient-packed dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat orzo?

Yes, whole wheat orzo works in this recipe, but it may alter the cooking time slightly.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a little added broth to restore creaminess.

→ Can I freeze Creamy Spinach Orzo?

While it's best fresh, you can freeze the dish. Just note that the texture may change slightly when thawed.